Geography demo Flashcards
The L in LOWERN
latitude
Characteristics of L in LOWERN
Distance from the equator (the closer you are to the equator the warmer is it)
The intensity of solar energy delivered by sunlight varies with the latitude
At higher latitudes (i.e.. North pole), the solar energy is less concentrated, spread over a larger surface area…. Cooler
At lower latitudes (i.e.. equator), the solar energy is more concentrated, spread over a smaller surface…. Warmer
The O in LOWERN
ocean currents
Characteristics of O in LOWERN
If a cold ocean current passes by = cool aif
If a warm ocean current passes by= warm air
East Coast:
Gulf stream - warm
Labrador Current - cold
West Coast:
North Pacific Current - warm
W in LOWERN
Winds & Air Masses
characteristics of W in LOWERN
A large volume of air with almost the same temperature and moisture throughout
An air mass takes climate conditions from one place to another
Example:
An air mass originating from the Arctic is cold and dry
It moves southward and is carried by Westerly Winds, bringing cold, dry air across Canada
Air Masses:
Moisture (m (maritime) or c (continental)) & Temperature (T (tropical), P (polar), and A(arctic))
Prevailing Winds:
Winds that blow in almost constant directions at these latitudes. In Canada, the prevailing winds blow from west to east. These are called “westerlies” and move air masses that affect our climate
Air Masses:
Front:
The boundary between two air masses with different temperatures and moisture content
Cold Front:
The leading edge of a cold air mass
Warm Front:
The learning edge of a warm mass
E in LOWERN
elevation
characteristics of E in LOWERN
As altitude increases, the corresponding temperature of air decreases
As air rises, it expands because there is less air pressure. As air expands, it cools
Further cooling causes condensation - water vapour is changed into liquid (i.e clouds)
R in LOWERN
relief
R chracteristics in LOWERN
Refers to differences in elevation caused by features on the landscape
Example: A mountain range is a type of relief
Even small barriers like a building can cause a temperature difference
Mountain ranges act as barriers to the movement of air masses
The west side is windward and the east side is leeward
They also cause precipitation to occur
N in LOWERN
near water
N characteristyics in LOWERN
Water heats up and cools down more slowly than land
In the summer, wind blowing from the water will be cool (lake acts like an air conditioner
Water absorbs the sun’s energy and releases it slowly
In the winter, wind blowing from the water will be warmer (lake acts like a space heater)
Water releases heat
The land reflects the sun’s energy and none is stored, making temp more extreme (hotter summers and colder winters)
Places near large water bodies are Moderate - they do not get as cool or as warm as others
